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Lionfish are naturally found in the South Pacific and Indian oceans. However, they are an invasive species along the Golf of Mexico and the Caribbean and a huge problem for the animals that live in that area. There are no predators in this environment to stop them since animals around the area have not evolved defenses or know to avoid them. It is speculated that people were dumping unwanted lionfish from aquariums into the ocean. They also have a high rate of reproduction. A female can release about 30,000 eggs every 7 days and the eggs will hatch after 2 days. The lionfish have feathery pectoral fins that are used to attract smaller prey. They have up to 18 venomous spines on the back side of the body. The venom is actually used for self defense not for hunting.